Canthoplasty: Nasal and Temporal

Medical Specialty:

Overview:

A canthoplasty is a surgery performed to shorten the length of the eyelids. It is generally performed in order to prevent or to stop the hair from the nasal folds from contacting the cornea and causing irritation and scarring.

Scarring to the surface of the eye can occur for a number of reasons. For instance, many pets are unable to fully close their eyes when blinking leaving the center of their cornea constantly exposed to air. This may also occur in pets that sleep with their eyes partially open. A canthoplasty may also be recommended as a preventative measure if your pet is at risk for pushing his eye in front of his eyelids (a proptosis, “poping out”). This usually is a risk factor for pets with bulging eyes. Pets with larger eyelid opening and protruding eyes often expose or rub their eyes on different things causing damage to their eyes. This may develop into a film-like scar tissue on their eyes or result in a corneal abrasion (or ulceration).

Whenever your pet is showing signs of a health issue your first step is to contact your primary care veterinarian. If it is indicated that your pet may suffer from corneal scarring or another serious condition, a veterinary specialist is available at an ExpertVetcertified hospital.

Prior to Surgery:

The procedure involves first getting complete blood work and a urinalysis prior to the day of the surgery. These tests are important in reaching an accurate pre-operative evaluation, assuring the goal of a safe anesthesia, and leading to the best possible recovery for your pet. On the day of the surgery, you will not feed your pet breakfast and will need to bring all of your medication with you.